Playing helps Rio stay upbeat

REDS defender Rio Ferdinand is coping with the drugs test controversy which is hanging over him - by getting out on to the pitch and playing. The England star is expected to partner Mikael Silvestre at the heart of United's defence at Anfield tomorrow (Sunday) and says he is dealing with the huge question mark hanging over his career by focusing on his game.

REDS defender Rio Ferdinand is coping with the drugs test controversy which is hanging over him - by getting out on to the pitch and playing.

The England star is expected to partner Mikael Silvestre at the heart of United's defence at Anfield tomorrow (Sunday) and says he is dealing with the huge question mark hanging over his career by focusing on his game.

"I know how important it is that I concentrate on my football, despite everything," said Ferdinand.

"This is a different time to what I've been used to in my career but you just have to deal with it.

"If I had let things get to me, and hadn't been doing the business on the pitch, I'm sure the manager would have dropped me.

"I haven't sensed any pressure while I've been playing. In fact, it is where I have felt most comfortable.

"I have a job to do for my club and I'm getting on with it and focusing 100 per cent. I've been really pleased with my form."

Meanwhile, midfielder Darren Fletcher won't waste time looking back on his stunning start to the season - in case it all begins to go wrong.

The 19-year-old Scot has made his Barclaycard Premiership debut, scored a vital winner for his country to earn them a place in the Euro 2004 play-offs and played in the Champions League against Rangers this week.

Fletcher, who will be in United's squad for tomorrow's match, said: "It's hard to believe it's all happened so quickly and close together.

"But I can't afford to look back. There could be a bad game just around the corner and then a lot of the hard work will be undone. I know it's only the start and I've got to keep performing."

Fletcher broke through from the youth ranks last season and has made such an impact that he has been rewarded with a new four-year contract.

The midfielder added: "It shows I must have been doing quite well. I'm going to be here for the next four years and, hopefully, longer.

"I've had loads of good advice from the lads. Having Gary Neville playing just behind me has helped, he's talking to me the whole time."